Qantas slash prices

[Snorzac]

QANTAS will strike back at rival Singapore Airlines' new cut-price deals by slashing up to $1000 off a return ticket to London.

The national carrier this weekend will unveil a raft of fare cuts to match its Asian rival and stimulate falling sales caused by the economic downturn.

The Herald Sun has learned Qantas plans to charge $1495 return for a Melbourne-London ticket, just $76 more than SIA's heavily-discounted offer of $1471.

Qantas also will announce a $721 Melbourne-Singapore return fare, just $6 above SIA's new fare of $715.

The latest round of discounting poses a potential threat to Jetstar's growing market between Australia and Singapore.

The low-cost carrier charges $309 one-way for its super low Melbourne-Singapore fare. A return ticket costs $618.

Qantas and SIA economy passengers are not charged for their meals, drinks or inflight entertainment.

The Qantas discounts will apply for travel through to November 30.